In the wake of a powerful earthquake that rocked Japan's Ishikawa prefecture on January 1, rescuers are tirelessly searching for survivors even as bad weather and damaged roads hamper the efforts and the death toll nears 100.&nbsp;

On Friday, four days after the devastating 7.5 magnitude earthquake hit Japan, 222 people still remain missing. The number of injured stands at 464, while 94 people are confirmed dead, including a high school boy who was visiting his family.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-earthquake-freezing-temperatures-and-heavy-rain-hamper-relief-work-676312">Japan earthquake: Freezing temperatures and heavy rain hamper relief work</a>

Amid forecasts of rain, snow and falling temperatures in coming days, the hope&nbsp;of finding more survivors is fast fading.&nbsp;However, despite the end of the three-day survival window, rescuers continue their efforts, hoping to find&nbsp;more people. As per emergency responders, survival rates tend to drop beyond the three-day or 72-hour period after an earthquake.

Speaking at a press conference, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida also stressed "We must continue putting all of our efforts into rescuing people, even beyond 72 hours after the disaster."

On Thursday, the Japanese leader also pledged to tap roughly 4 billion yen ($28 million) of the country's national budget for disaster relief.

<h2>Miraculous rescue</h2>

More than 72 hours after the quake, on Thursday, two elderly women were pulled from the remains of their home in Wajima. As per AFP, one of them was rescue thanks to the effort of a sniffer dog.

Around 30,000 households in the Ishikawa region still remain without electricity. 89,800 homes in Ishikawa and two other regions are without water, while hundreds of people are living in government shelters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-earthquake-casualties-increase-to-62-amid-aftershocks-and-bad-weather-toll-expected-to-rise-further-676013">Japan earthquake casualties increase to 62; aftershocks and bad weather aggravate situation</a>

<h2>Japan and earthquakes</h2>

Every year, Japan experiences hundreds of earthquakes, due to which the nation has stringent building codes, which have been in place for more than four decades.

Thanks to these strict building codes, Japan experiences little or no damage. 
 
However, as per AFP, over the last five years, the Noto region has been hit with earthquakes of intensifying strength and frequency.

The earthquake that struck Japan on New Year's as per the US Geological Survey had a magnitude of 7.5, while the JMA measured it at 7.6.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In the wake of a powerful earthquake that rocked Japan's Ishikawa prefecture on January 1, rescuers are tirelessly searching for survivors even as bad weather and damaged roads hamper the efforts and the death toll nears 100.

In the wake of a powerful earthquake that rocked Japan's Ishikawa prefecture on January 1, rescuers are tirelessly searching for survivors even as bad weather and damaged roads hamper the efforts and the death toll nears 100. On Friday, four days after the devastating 7.5 magnitude earthquake hit Japan, 222 people still remain missing. The number of injured stands at 464, while 94 people are confirmed dead, including a high school boy who was visiting his family. Also read | Japan earthquake: Freezing temperatures and heavy rain hamper relief work Amid forecasts of rain, snow and falling temperatures in coming days, the hope of finding more survivors is fast fading. However, despite the end of the three-day survival window, rescuers continue their efforts, hoping to find more people. As per emergency responders, survival rates tend to drop beyond the three-day or 72-hour period after an earthquake. Speaking at a press conference, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida also stressed "We must continue putting all of our efforts into rescuing people, even beyond 72 hours after the disaster." On Thursday, the Japanese leader also pledged to tap roughly 4 billion yen ($28 million) of the country's national budget for disaster relief. Miraculous rescue More than 72 hours after the quake, on Thursday, two elderly women were pulled from the remains of their home in Wajima. As per AFP, one of them was rescue thanks to the effort of a sniffer dog. Around 30,000 households in the Ishikawa region still remain without electricity. 89,800 homes in Ishikawa and two other regions are without water, while hundreds of people are living in government shelters. Also read | Japan earthquake casualties increase to 62; aftershocks and bad weather aggravate situation Japan and earthquakes Every year, Japan experiences hundreds of earthquakes, due to which the nation has stringent building codes, which have been in place for more than four decades. Thanks to these strict building codes, Japan experiences little or no damage. However, as per AFP, over the last five years, the Noto region has been hit with earthquakes of intensifying strength and frequency. The earthquake that struck Japan on New Year's as per the US Geological Survey had a magnitude of 7.5, while the JMA measured it at 7.6. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan earthquake: Hope fades for rescue of 222 missing people as death toll rises to 94

Japan, which is currently reeling in the aftermath of a devastating earthquake, reported of a positive development where self-defence forces rescued nearly 122 people.

Most importantly, a dog also had a role to play in the rescue efforts.

The defence minister released a statement on Thursday informing that an elderly woman, who was trapped in a house which was devastated in the powerful quake, was rescued by a search dog named Jennifer.

Jennifer is one of the specially trained canines which is deployed to the regions that are hardest hit by the 7.5 magnitude earthquake&nbsp;on Jan 1.

They have joined thousands of troops and firefighters in the desperate search for survivors on the Sea of Japan coast.

"The Self-Defence Forces had rescued 122 people by yesterday, including an elderly woman in a house in Wajima City, who was found and rescued by a search dog (Jennifer)," Defence Minister Minoru Kihara wrote on X.

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自衛隊は捜索犬（ジェニファー号）が輪島市内の家屋内にて独居高齢女性を発見・救出するなど、昨日（3日）までに122名を救助。正念場の本日は隊員を約4,600名に増強して活動します。<a href="https://t.co/m0bmyhjnZG">https://t.co/m0bmyhjnZG</a>
— 木原みのる(木原稔) (@kihara_minoru) <a href="https://twitter.com/kihara_minoru/status/1742789578468343907?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"Today, which is a crucial day, the number of personnel will be increased to approximately 4,600," he added.

At least 84 people have been confirmed dead after the quake and a slew of powerful aftershocks struck the country on New Year's Day. At least 79 others have been listed as missing by the local authorities.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-airlines-inferno-coastguard-plane-did-not-get-clearance-for-take-off-transcripts-suggest-676484">Japan Airlines: Coastguard plane did not have clearance for take-off</a>

<h2>Freezing temperatures and heavy rain hamper relief work</h2>

Japan's massive earthquake left tens of thousands without power or running water. The misery deepened with freezing temperatures and heavy rainfall.&nbsp;

Monday's quake of magnitude 7.6 was centred near Noto, which is about 300 kilometres from Tokyo on the opposite coast. Ishikawa prefecture and nearby areas were shaken by more aftershocks on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The heavy rains also raised fears of landslides that could further hamper efforts to rescue people trapped under rubble.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Japan, which is currently reeling in the aftermath of a devastating earthquake, reported of a positive development where self-defence forces rescued nearly 122 people.

Japan, which is currently reeling in the aftermath of a devastating earthquake, reported of a positive development where self-defence forces rescued nearly 122 people. Most importantly, a dog also had a role to play in the rescue efforts. The defence minister released a statement on Thursday informing that an elderly woman, who was trapped in a house which was devastated in the powerful quake, was rescued by a search dog named Jennifer. Jennifer is one of the specially trained canines which is deployed to the regions that are hardest hit by the 7.5 magnitude earthquake on Jan 1. They have joined thousands of troops and firefighters in the desperate search for survivors on the Sea of Japan coast. "The Self-Defence Forces had rescued 122 people by yesterday, including an elderly woman in a house in Wajima City, who was found and rescued by a search dog (Jennifer)," Defence Minister Minoru Kihara wrote on X. 自衛隊は捜索犬（ジェニファー号）が輪島市内の家屋内にて独居高齢女性を発見・救出するなど、昨日（3日）までに122名を救助。正念場の本日は隊員を約4,600名に増強して活動します。https://t.co/m0bmyhjnZG — 木原みのる(木原稔) (@kihara_minoru) January 4, 2024 × "Today, which is a crucial day, the number of personnel will be increased to approximately 4,600," he added. At least 84 people have been confirmed dead after the quake and a slew of powerful aftershocks struck the country on New Year's Day. At least 79 others have been listed as missing by the local authorities. Also read: Japan Airlines: Coastguard plane did not have clearance for take-off Freezing temperatures and heavy rain hamper relief work Japan's massive earthquake left tens of thousands without power or running water. The misery deepened with freezing temperatures and heavy rainfall. Monday's quake of magnitude 7.6 was centred near Noto, which is about 300 kilometres from Tokyo on the opposite coast. Ishikawa prefecture and nearby areas were shaken by more aftershocks on Wednesday. The heavy rains also raised fears of landslides that could further hamper efforts to rescue people trapped under rubble. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan Earthquake: Search dog rescues elderly woman trapped inside damaged house

The death toll from a series of powerful earthquakes in Japan on New Year's day has now risen to 78 as the search for survivors under collapsed buildings continues for the fourth day.

Japan Earthquake: Search for survivors enters Day 4; death toll rises to 78

Japan's powerful earthquake shifts land by 1.3 metres. Japan's geospatial information authority notes Ishikawa prefecture experiences the biggest shift, moving horizontally to the west.

Japan Earthquake: Death toll in rises to 55, powerful quake shifts land by 1.3 metres

In the wake of a powerful earthquake that rocked Japan's Ishikawa prefecture on January 1, rescuers are tirelessly searching for survivors even as the death toll reached&nbsp;62.

On Wednesday, the regional government announced that 62 people have been confirmed dead. Additionally, more than 300 people have been injured, 20 of them seriously.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/powerful-earthquake-in-japan-may-have-shifted-land-by-13-metres-675903">Powerful earthquake in Japan may have shifted land by 1.3 metres</a>

Authorities have warned of landslides and heavy rain in the aftermath of the earthquake. Monday's 7.5-magnitude quake has already caused tsunamis over a metre&nbsp;high, leading to widespread destruction, major fires, and damaged roads. The Noto Peninsula, particularly towns like Wajima and Suzu, suffered significant losses, with buildings getting ravaged by fire and houses flattened.

<h2>Rescue efforts continue</h2>

As per AFP, the rescue efforts continue, however, challenges like aftershocks and adverse weather conditions make the situation difficult. The toll is expected to increase as rescuers continue to comb through rubble amid poor weather.

The operation is being undertaken as extra urgent&nbsp;due to the Japan Meteorological Agency's (JMA) heavy rain warning in the area.

"Be on the lookout for landslides until the evening of Wednesday," it said.

Over 31,800 individuals are in shelters, and there's a heightened risk of landslides due to heavy rain, said the government.

Stressing the urgency of rescue operations, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday said: "More than 40 hours have passed since the disaster. We have received a lot of information about people in need of rescue and there are people waiting for help."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-earthquake-japan-earthquake-response-japan-earthquake-evacuation-675955">Explained | How does Japan maintain its stoic resilience amid major earthquakes?</a>

"Rescue efforts are being made by the local authorities, police, firefighters, and other operational units, while the number of personnel and rescue dogs is enhanced.&nbsp;

"However, we ask you to remain fully mindful that we are in a race against time and to continue to do your utmost to save lives, putting people's lives first," said Kishida after an emergency task force meeting.

As per the US Geological Survey, the quake had a magnitude of 7.5, while the JMA measured it at 7.6.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In the wake of a powerful earthquake that rocked Japan's Ishikawa prefecture on January 1, rescuers are tirelessly searching for survivors even as the death toll reached 62.

In the wake of a powerful earthquake that rocked Japan's Ishikawa prefecture on January 1, rescuers are tirelessly searching for survivors even as the death toll reached 62. On Wednesday, the regional government announced that 62 people have been confirmed dead. Additionally, more than 300 people have been injured, 20 of them seriously. Also read | Powerful earthquake in Japan may have shifted land by 1.3 metres Authorities have warned of landslides and heavy rain in the aftermath of the earthquake. Monday's 7.5-magnitude quake has already caused tsunamis over a metre high, leading to widespread destruction, major fires, and damaged roads. The Noto Peninsula, particularly towns like Wajima and Suzu, suffered significant losses, with buildings getting ravaged by fire and houses flattened. Rescue efforts continue As per AFP, the rescue efforts continue, however, challenges like aftershocks and adverse weather conditions make the situation difficult. The toll is expected to increase as rescuers continue to comb through rubble amid poor weather. The operation is being undertaken as extra urgent due to the Japan Meteorological Agency's (JMA) heavy rain warning in the area. "Be on the lookout for landslides until the evening of Wednesday," it said. Over 31,800 individuals are in shelters, and there's a heightened risk of landslides due to heavy rain, said the government. Stressing the urgency of rescue operations, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday said: "More than 40 hours have passed since the disaster. We have received a lot of information about people in need of rescue and there are people waiting for help." Also read | Explained | How does Japan maintain its stoic resilience amid major earthquakes? "Rescue efforts are being made by the local authorities, police, firefighters, and other operational units, while the number of personnel and rescue dogs is enhanced. "However, we ask you to remain fully mindful that we are in a race against time and to continue to do your utmost to save lives, putting people's lives first," said Kishida after an emergency task force meeting. As per the US Geological Survey, the quake had a magnitude of 7.5, while the JMA measured it at 7.6. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan earthquake casualties increase to 62; aftershocks and bad weather aggravate situation

Massive earthquake jolts Japan; the country was hit by 155 aftershocks since Monday. Residents flee some coastal areas. Over 1,00,000 residents ordered to evacuate. Watch the video to know more!

Japan Earthquake: Many still feared trapped under rubble | Authorities warn of strong tremors

Japan Earthquake: Land shifts to west by 1.3 meters after series of earthquakes

At least 55 have been killed due to a massive earthquake in Japan. Rescue workers are battling against time to pull out survivors trapped under rubble. Over 200 aftershocks have been recorded since the quake. Japan is on alert for more earthquakes.

Japan on alert for more earthquakes

Japan Earthquake | PM Fumio Kshida: Residents need to prepare for any more tremors

Japan Earthquake: Death toll climbs to 48, no damage to nuclear reactors

An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.6 hit north-central Japan on January 1. Houses were overturned and roads were damaged or cut in Ishikawa Prefecture's Kanazawa city. According to reports, Earthquake took the life of more than 20 people.

Japan Earthquake: Houses & roads collapse from quake in Ishikawa Prefecture's Kanzawa

Japan was hit by one of the deadliest earthquake on January 1. A 7.6 magnitude earthquake jolted several parts of Japan. At Nanao city in Ishikawa, a car was seen crushed under a collapsed building.

Japan Earthquake:  Home collapses on car as Earthquake jolts Japan

A day after Japan was hit by a severe earthquake of 7.6 magnitude. A new notification for Tsunami has been released by Japanese authorities.

Japan Earthquake: A new notification for Tsunami released by Japanese authorities

Japan: Magnitude 7.5 earthquake shatters New Year calm | Death toll climbs to 48

Japan Earthquake: No damage to nuclear plants | Death toll rises to 30

Japan on high alert after Tsunami warnings | Death toll rises to 20 | Japan Earthquake

Japan was jolted by a 7.6 magnitude earthquake on January 1st, 2024, with its epicentre in the Noto region. The quake triggered fires, building collapses, and violent shaking of trains. Eyewitness videos captured the moment high waves hit Japan's coast, raising fears of a tsunami. The impact was felt beyond Japan's borders, with tsunami warnings issued in South Korea and Russia's Far Eastern cities.

Japan Earthquake: 7.6 Magnitude Earthquake strikes Japan, triggering tsunami warning

An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.6 hit north central Japan on the first day of New Year. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a tsunami warning along the western coastal regions of Ishikawa, Niigata and Toyama prefectures.

Japan earthquake: Major tsunami hits Sea of Japan coast

A 7.6&nbsp;magnitude earthquake hit central Japan on Monday (January 1) prompting&nbsp;officials to issue&nbsp;tsunami warning.&nbsp;Japan's national broadcaster NHK&nbsp;has reported that some of the first tsunami waves have&nbsp;already hit the Japanese shores.&nbsp;The official alert urged people to move to higher grounds.

"All residents must evacuate immediately to higher ground," national broadcaster NHK said after the quake hit the Noto region in Ishikawa prefecture around 4:10 pm (0710 GMT).

NHK reported that a 5-metre tsunami has already hit Noto, while Niigata, Sado Island and Toyama have been lashed by tsunami waves of 3 metres in height. Warnings for other regions predict tsunami waves of up to&nbsp;1 metre high.

United States&nbsp;Hawaii-based Pacific Tsunami Center has said that Hazardous tsunami waves are possible within 300 km range of the epicentre of the earthquake.

Japan Meteorological Agency had earlier predicted that that the tsunami waves could reach up to five metres high.

The latest tsunamis have&nbsp;refreshed memories of devastation in 2011 when a 9.0 magnitude earthquake had triggered tsunami wave leading&nbsp;to nuclear meltdown&nbsp;at the Fukushima&nbsp;plant.

NHK has reported that Hokuriku Electric Power was checking for any irregularities at the nuclear power plants it operates.

According to Reuters,&nbsp;a spokesperson of Kansai Electric Power&nbsp;said that though there were no abnormalities at nuclear plants operated by the company, it was closely monitoring the situation.

Meanwhile, the Japanese government has said that no abnormalities have been reported from the nuclear power plants in the country&nbsp;so far.

(With input from agencies)

A 7.6 magnitude earthquake hit central Japan on Monday (January 1) prompting officials to issue tsunami warning. Japan's national broadcaster NHK has reported that some of the first tsunami waves have already hit the Japanese shores.

A 7.6 magnitude earthquake hit central Japan on Monday (January 1) prompting officials to issue tsunami warning. Japan's national broadcaster NHK has reported that some of the first tsunami waves have already hit the Japanese shores. The official alert urged people to move to higher grounds. "All residents must evacuate immediately to higher ground," national broadcaster NHK said after the quake hit the Noto region in Ishikawa prefecture around 4:10 pm (0710 GMT). NHK reported that a 5-metre tsunami has already hit Noto, while Niigata, Sado Island and Toyama have been lashed by tsunami waves of 3 metres in height. Warnings for other regions predict tsunami waves of up to 1 metre high. United States Hawaii-based Pacific Tsunami Center has said that Hazardous tsunami waves are possible within 300 km range of the epicentre of the earthquake. Japan Meteorological Agency had earlier predicted that that the tsunami waves could reach up to five metres high. The latest tsunamis have refreshed memories of devastation in 2011 when a 9.0 magnitude earthquake had triggered tsunami wave leading to nuclear meltdown at the Fukushima plant. NHK has reported that Hokuriku Electric Power was checking for any irregularities at the nuclear power plants it operates. According to Reuters, a spokesperson of Kansai Electric Power said that though there were no abnormalities at nuclear plants operated by the company, it was closely monitoring the situation. Meanwhile, the Japanese government has said that no abnormalities have been reported from the nuclear power plants in the country so far. (With input from agencies)

Tsunami waves hit Japan after powerful 7.6 earthquake

A massive earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.6 hit central Japan on Monday, triggering a tsunami warning and advisories for residents to evacuate. The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued tsunami warnings for the coastal prefectures of Ishikawa, Niigata and Toyama.

Massive earthquake jolts Japan, Tsunami warning issued

For years, scientists have talked about the "Big One", a massive earthquake likely to hit California in the coming years. People have wondered how big would it be and how to prepare for it. But now a recent study suggests that the fear created around the expected California quake might have been a bit too much.&nbsp;

The latest study goes against&nbsp;previous studies to say that&nbsp;the ‘Big One’&nbsp;predicted along the San Andreas fault in Southern California might not actually be as big in reality.

The findings of the study were presented at the American Geophysical Union and were reported by Live Science. If the study is proven to be true, it can potentially be game-changing, but the US Geological Survey (USGS) has already cautioned that it is too soon to incorporate the new data.

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Here’s what the study says.

<h2>‘Big One’ earthquake might not be as big as suggested earlier</h2>

The new study says that traditional earthquake models rely on data that is old and outdated, as it records ground motion from past seismic events that often have a limited timeframe. However, for this new study, the team of researchers turned to an unconventional source of data - rocks.

Rocks that are located 9.3 miles away from the San Andreas fault became the source of the new study. The cluster of five rocks which withstood seismic activity in the past 50,000 years and is situated in northern Los Angeles County, was examined for some insights on earthquakes.

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Lead researcher Anna Rood, a seismic hazard scientist at Imperial College London, explained that current earthquake recordings span less than 100 years, making predictions uncertain regarding the potential impact of rare, large earthquakes.

The study’s findings made a big claim that ground shaking during the anticipated Big One earthquake could be up to 65 per cent less intense than current hazard models suggest. The result of the study is quite significant and can be of immense importance in disaster management if proven true.

Until then, it is better to take the findings of the study with a pinch of salt as it has been three centuries since the last earthquakes hit the southern San Andreas Fault.&nbsp;

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Geophysicist Mark Peterson from USGS said that it’s too early to incorporate the findings into undated hazard maps. Hazard maps play a pivotal role in setting building codes, disaster preparation plans and determining earthquake insurance premiums. If the new data is added to future map updates, it could have far-fetched implications for these decisions, as per Rood.&nbsp;

The research team, however, plans to continue their study of precarious rocks around the world with the aim of improving current data on earthquakes.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

For years, scientists have talked about the "Big One", a massive earthquake likely to hit California in the coming years. People have wondered how big would it be and how to prepare for it.

For years, scientists have talked about the "Big One", a massive earthquake likely to hit California in the coming years. People have wondered how big would it be and how to prepare for it. But now a recent study suggests that the fear created around the expected California quake might have been a bit too much. The latest study goes against previous studies to say that the ‘Big One’ predicted along the San Andreas fault in Southern California might not actually be as big in reality. The findings of the study were presented at the American Geophysical Union and were reported by Live Science. If the study is proven to be true, it can potentially be game-changing, but the US Geological Survey (USGS) has already cautioned that it is too soon to incorporate the new data. Also Read | Sex in space? It might still be a distant possibility due to microgravity Here’s what the study says. ‘Big One’ earthquake might not be as big as suggested earlier The new study says that traditional earthquake models rely on data that is old and outdated, as it records ground motion from past seismic events that often have a limited timeframe. However, for this new study, the team of researchers turned to an unconventional source of data - rocks. Rocks that are located 9.3 miles away from the San Andreas fault became the source of the new study. The cluster of five rocks which withstood seismic activity in the past 50,000 years and is situated in northern Los Angeles County, was examined for some insights on earthquakes. Also Read | Intermittent fasting leads to healthy changes in brain and gut, says research Lead researcher Anna Rood, a seismic hazard scientist at Imperial College London, explained that current earthquake recordings span less than 100 years, making predictions uncertain regarding the potential impact of rare, large earthquakes. The study’s findings made a big claim that ground shaking during the anticipated Big One earthquake could be up to 65 per cent less intense than current hazard models suggest. The result of the study is quite significant and can be of immense importance in disaster management if proven true. Until then, it is better to take the findings of the study with a pinch of salt as it has been three centuries since the last earthquakes hit the southern San Andreas Fault. Also Read | Japan's probe enters lunar orbit, what happens now? Geophysicist Mark Peterson from USGS said that it’s too early to incorporate the findings into undated hazard maps. Hazard maps play a pivotal role in setting building codes, disaster preparation plans and determining earthquake insurance premiums. If the new data is added to future map updates, it could have far-fetched implications for these decisions, as per Rood. The research team, however, plans to continue their study of precarious rocks around the world with the aim of improving current data on earthquakes. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Big One’ in California might defy current quake predictions and models, new study says

On the sixth of February, Turkiye and Syria faced the deadliest of natural disasters. A 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit the two countries. More than 50,000 people were killed. WION was there, we brought you reports of the death and destruction as it happened. Our first rewind report – Ghadi Francis recaps the horror as it unfolded.

WION rewind 2023: Changing face of West Asia | Turkiye-Syria Quake

Gansu continues to shiver at -15 degrees Celsius as rescuers continue to hunt for survivors under the rubble. The quake in Gansu resulted in the death of at least 135 residents with over a thousand casualties.

China earthquake: Rescue ops underway to dig out survivors

China's Gansu province has been hit by a 6.2-magnitude earthquake. This is China's deadliest earthquake in a decade. Houses and buildings have been reduced to rubble. Rescue operations are underway for those missing.

Gravitas: China rocked by 6.2-magnitude earthquake

Over 85,000 people have been displaced following an strong earthquake in China. Many are without a shelter in sub-zero temperatures. Priyanka Sharma brings you a report

Gravitas | China Earthquake: Futures trapped under the rubble

A magnitude-6.2 earthquake jolted a remote and mountainous county on the northern edge of the Qinghai-Tibetan plateau around midnight on Tuesday, killing at least 131 people and injuring more than 700, according to Chinese state media.

China earthquake: Death toll mounts at least 131, over 700 injured

The death toll after a 6.2 magnitude earthquake hit a remote and mountainous county in northwest China has risen to 131 as Chinese rescuers braving sub-zero conditions in the region continued to find and treat survivors, on Wednesday (Dec 20).

The quake, which happened one minute before midnight on Monday, came as temperatures across northern China plunged. Most cities across China have been witnessing a cold snap for days now, but on Wednesday temperatures hit record low prompting officials to issue an alert for extreme cold.&nbsp;

The earthquake is said to be one of China’s deadliest since 2014 when more than 600 people were killed in southwestern Yunnan province.

<h2>Death toll crosses 130</h2>

At least 113 people have been found dead in northwestern China’s Gansu province as of 9:00 am (local time) on Wednesday, and 18 were said to be killed in neighbouring Qinghai after a shallow tremor on Monday night, reported the state broadcaster CCTV.&nbsp;

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According to Chinese news agency Xinhua, nearly 1,000 people were injured due to the earthquake which jolted Jishishan county near the border straddling Gansu and Qinghai provinces. CCTV reported that 78 people have been rescued in Gansu.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
In Gansu,&nbsp;more than 207,000 homes were damaged and nearly 15,000 houses collapsed affecting around&nbsp;145,000 people.&nbsp;

The area within 50 kilometres of the epicentre in the neighbouring Qinghai province, including 22 towns and villages have been affected due to the earthquake.&nbsp;

However, two villages have sustained the most damage, reported Reuters. In the neighbouring provinces’s Minhe county around 20 people were missing after a mudslide swept through half-burying many buildings in brown silt.

<h2>Rescue efforts underway in sub-zero temperatures</h2>

Thousands of emergency responders deployed in the region after the earthquake raced against time to look for survivors and resettle them.&nbsp;

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Chinese media citing researchers said that people trapped under rubble exposed to minus 10 degrees Celsius conditions could suffer from hypothermia and could only stay alive for between five and 10 hours if uninjured.&nbsp;

A&nbsp;21-year-old&nbsp;survivor named&nbsp;Du Haiyi in&nbsp;Qinghai's quake-hit Haidong told Reuters that&nbsp;his family home had been completely levelled but he&nbsp;managed to save his mother and 16-year-old sister, who were trapped under debris the night of the quake.&nbsp;

"My parents were pulled out from underneath this, but I don't know how," said Du, adding that they "ran to wherever we could."

The earthquake in Gansu prompted frightened residents out of their homes and onto the streets in the cold. Groups of survivors reportedly spent a freezing Tuesday night huddled around outdoor fires.

More than 128,000 emergency supply items including tents, quilts, tent lights and folding beds were supplied to victims in Gansu as well as food such as steamed buns and instant noodles.

China’s weather office, early Wednesday, said subzero temperatures smashed records at five stations which include provinces and regions of Shanxi, Hebei and Inner Mongolia.&nbsp;

The temperature in Shanxi’s city of Datong dropped to minus 33.2 degrees Celsius and minus 27 degrees Celsius in the nearby county of Yangqu.

“Notably, the records for all-time low temperatures (in those areas) had already been broken on December 17,” the Chinese national weather office said in a post on social media.&nbsp;

The temperatures also plunged to record lows in Qingshuihe, Inner Mongolia (minus 29.7 degrees Celsius); Baoding, Hebei (minus 23.3 degrees Celsius); and Shunping, Hebei (minus 22 degrees Celsius).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ready-to-negotiate-to-end-war-but-not-prisoner-exchange-says-hamas-reports-671456">Ready to negotiate to end war, but not prisoner exchange, says Hamas: Reports</a>

<h2>Officials warn of strong aftershocks</h2>

Freezing temperatures were not the only concern of the rescue workers as Reuters citing Gansu Provincial Seismological Bureau, strong aftershocks of magnitude five were still possible around the area in the coming days.&nbsp;

The findings were said to be based on a comprehensive analysis of the characteristics of the Monday quake, historical seismic activity and other factors.

(With inputs from agencies)

The death toll after a 6.2 magnitude earthquake hit a remote and mountainous county in northwest China has risen to 131 as Chinese rescuers braving sub-zero conditions in the region continued to find and treat survivors, on Wednesday (Dec 20).

The death toll after a 6.2 magnitude earthquake hit a remote and mountainous county in northwest China has risen to 131 as Chinese rescuers braving sub-zero conditions in the region continued to find and treat survivors, on Wednesday (Dec 20). The quake, which happened one minute before midnight on Monday, came as temperatures across northern China plunged. Most cities across China have been witnessing a cold snap for days now, but on Wednesday temperatures hit record low prompting officials to issue an alert for extreme cold. The earthquake is said to be one of China’s deadliest since 2014 when more than 600 people were killed in southwestern Yunnan province. Death toll crosses 130 At least 113 people have been found dead in northwestern China’s Gansu province as of 9:00 am (local time) on Wednesday, and 18 were said to be killed in neighbouring Qinghai after a shallow tremor on Monday night, reported the state broadcaster CCTV. ALSO READ | Pannun alleged murder plot: Indian PM Modi flags activities of overseas 'extremist groups' According to Chinese news agency Xinhua, nearly 1,000 people were injured due to the earthquake which jolted Jishishan county near the border straddling Gansu and Qinghai provinces. CCTV reported that 78 people have been rescued in Gansu. In Gansu, more than 207,000 homes were damaged and nearly 15,000 houses collapsed affecting around 145,000 people. The area within 50 kilometres of the epicentre in the neighbouring Qinghai province, including 22 towns and villages have been affected due to the earthquake. However, two villages have sustained the most damage, reported Reuters. In the neighbouring provinces’s Minhe county around 20 people were missing after a mudslide swept through half-burying many buildings in brown silt. Rescue efforts underway in sub-zero temperatures Thousands of emergency responders deployed in the region after the earthquake raced against time to look for survivors and resettle them. ALSO READ | Trump barred from Colorado ballot for role in January 6 attack on US Capitol Chinese media citing researchers said that people trapped under rubble exposed to minus 10 degrees Celsius conditions could suffer from hypothermia and could only stay alive for between five and 10 hours if uninjured. A 21-year-old survivor named Du Haiyi in Qinghai's quake-hit Haidong told Reuters that his family home had been completely levelled but he managed to save his mother and 16-year-old sister, who were trapped under debris the night of the quake. "My parents were pulled out from underneath this, but I don't know how," said Du, adding that they "ran to wherever we could." The earthquake in Gansu prompted frightened residents out of their homes and onto the streets in the cold. Groups of survivors reportedly spent a freezing Tuesday night huddled around outdoor fires. More than 128,000 emergency supply items including tents, quilts, tent lights and folding beds were supplied to victims in Gansu as well as food such as steamed buns and instant noodles. China’s weather office, early Wednesday, said subzero temperatures smashed records at five stations which include provinces and regions of Shanxi, Hebei and Inner Mongolia. The temperature in Shanxi’s city of Datong dropped to minus 33.2 degrees Celsius and minus 27 degrees Celsius in the nearby county of Yangqu. “Notably, the records for all-time low temperatures (in those areas) had already been broken on December 17,” the Chinese national weather office said in a post on social media. The temperatures also plunged to record lows in Qingshuihe, Inner Mongolia (minus 29.7 degrees Celsius); Baoding, Hebei (minus 23.3 degrees Celsius); and Shunping, Hebei (minus 22 degrees Celsius). ALSO READ | Ready to negotiate to end war, but not prisoner exchange, says Hamas: Reports Officials warn of strong aftershocks Freezing temperatures were not the only concern of the rescue workers as Reuters citing Gansu Provincial Seismological Bureau, strong aftershocks of magnitude five were still possible around the area in the coming days. The findings were said to be based on a comprehensive analysis of the characteristics of the Monday quake, historical seismic activity and other factors. (With inputs from agencies)

China earthquake: Death toll crosses 130, rescuers brave sub-zero conditions to find survivors

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At least 126 people were killed and over 530 others injured after a magnitude 6.2 earthquake in china's northwestern province. The earthquake was followed by several aftershocks and landslides as well.

6.2 magnitude earthquake jolts China

A magnitude-6.2 earthquake jolted a remote and mountainous county on the northern edge of the Qinghai-Tibetan plateau around midnight on Tuesday, killing at least 118 people and injuring more than 230, according to Chinese state media.

Rescuers struggle in sub-zero temperatures as 116 killed after massive quake

Magnitude 6.2 quake kills 118 in northwestern China's Gansu, Qinghai provinces

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